Ridding our community of hunger is possible

I recently experienced my first day as a volunteer at iHope, a resource center for the homeless here in San Clemente.

It was heartbreaking to see so many beautiful people in need of the basic things – things that most of us take for granted like a place to live, warm clothing and enough food. There were two children in the center during the couple hours I spent there. A young boy was flying his paper airplane around the room while his mother sat with a counselor. I saw people come in who were greeted by name by the volunteer staff.

Those who come to the center for the first time are welcomed and asked about their needs. They come in to get a lunch or bottle of water or use the bathroom. Sometimes they just want to see a friendly face or talk with friends they have met who are also seeking help. Often this visit to iHope is their last hope. They have no family or friends that they can turn to.

One evening shortly after volunteering, we had a torrential downpour. I thought about the folks that were out in that weather, seeking some kind of shelter. Were they under a tree or bush? Perhaps there was an overhang on a building they might huddle under. I felt overwhelming gratitude for my little apartment. I have a bed, warm blankets and food. And should I suffer a financial or health challenge, I have friends and family I can turn to.

While I understand that some individuals have become homeless through little or no fault of their own, I also know many suffer from some form of mental illness, are alcoholics or drug users. There is no place for these people to get the medical help they need.

If we would approach the homeless problem at its source rather than providing a temporary "fix," perhaps we would not only get these people off the streets, we might also save their lives in many other ways. Our Spanish Village by the Sea could become a homeless/hunger free community if we choose to be one. I can almost hear the shouts of those who will disagree with this. I say again with honest conviction: "Our Spanish Village by the Sea could become a homeless/hunger free community if we choose to be one."

One of my greatest passions and inspiration to help is homelessness and hunger. I am proud of the city of San Clemente and the organizations that collaborated to make this shelter possible. Much more help is needed. Please visit their website at ihopeoc.org to learn more about the services and needs of this valuable resource.

– Sandra Weaver has lived in San Clemente for eight years. Weaver is a mother of three, grandmother of five.